Rule of Law

I came across the following quote that I wanted to share.

The rule of law, in its most basic form, is the principle that no one is above the law. Thomas Paine stated in his pamphlet Common Sense (1776):

"For as in absolute governments the king is law, so in free countries the law ought to be king; and there ought to be no other."

I can't speak to the how the rule of law applies in contemporary America, but I love the ideal.

Thomas Paine's pamphlet Common Sense was written in argument for the American separation from Great Britain. I have put it onto my to-read list. I am curious what things still apply today.